Let Heath Ledger be a warning: Parents need wills
Categories: Money & work, Life & style, Celeb parenting, In the news
Page Six is reporting that Michelle Williams, Heath Ledger's ex and the mother of his daughter, is boycotting the July 14 premier of "The Dark Knight," Ledger's last film -- not because she's anti-Batman, but because she's concerned that Ledger's family are mismanaging his estate.At the time of Ledger's death, his will had not been updated to include daughter Matilda; everything goes to his parents and sisters, with his father as the executor. The Ledger family have said that they will take care of Matilda, but Williams appears to be uncomfortable with this whole set up.
Ledger's death was a tragedy for a lot of reasons, but it serves as a good reminder for all of us: if you have children, you need a will, one that specifies who gets custody and who manages the money, particularly if you have insurance or property, or if you have previously designated a beneficiary other than your spouse or child.
Despite being a big star, Ledger had very little in the way of cash when he died, but he owned a home and had a deal pending for royalties on the new Batman film. Hopefully, his family will honor their word and provide for Matilda, but it's easy to see why Williams might be nervous. Don't leave your kids in the same situation; make sure your affairs are in order now, just in case.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
NIkki 6-24-2008 @ 4:29PM
This isn't true. Read the article from People Mag.
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20208529,00.html?xid=rss-topheadlines
Reply
EskimoPie 6-24-2008 @ 5:24PM
So any advice on reputable on-line sites for will prep?
Reply
ame s 6-25-2008 @ 11:47AM
Yes, Dave Ramsey's site has state specific wills you can download and print.
ninainindia 6-24-2008 @ 9:30PM
I didn't know this was possible. I believe where I'm from your children automatically share the estate, it is not possible to cut them out of your will.
Reply